Go, girl: Macquarie student makes ‘100 Women of Influence’ list

Maddison O’Gradey-Lee has one simple ambition: “I just want to do what I can to make the world a better place.”

But don’t let this humble-sounding goal fool you: this girl is one serious achiever. And it’s not just her teachers and mentors at Macquarie who have noticed – Maddison has just been named among the Australian Financial Review’s 100 Women of Influence, in the ‘Young Leader’ category.

“I’m so honoured to have been named on the list,” says Maddison. “It still hasn’t sunk in – I can’t believe it!”

The Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) student was recognised – among other things – for her commitment to youth mental health, having created her own mental health organisation called High Tide.

“I’m passionate about eliminating the stigma around mental health, and also ensuring women and girls aren’t held back just because of their gender,” says Maddison. “For me, education is the conduit for both problems.”

“At High Tide, we run practical school workshops that create spaces where education is shared, conversations begin, and empathy and acceptance are ingrained into the hearts and minds of all young people.”

Maddison’s work in mental health has already seen her become the first Australian to be awarded a Dalai Lama Peace Fellowship – an honour which has given her an opportunity to spread her mental health message worldwide.
“I’ve been working with Fellows from around the world on a global mindfulness, entrepreneurship and compassion training program,” Maddison says.

Another item on her to-do list is to bring the Canberra-based Jasiri program – which provides self-defence program for survivors of sexual abuse – to Sydney.

Make the world a better place? We reckon you can safely tick that box, Maddison.

Maddison’s MQ life (um… how does she fit it all in?)

Serves on the SRC as the Women’s representative

On the Respect.Now.Always student team

President of the Indigenous Student Association

Cadet at Walanga Muru

Member of the Macquarie Uni water polo team (which is soon heading for Nationals)